Denver Broncos closed out the 2026 NFL Draft by selecting Buffalo linebacker Red Murdock as “Mr. Irrelevant” with the 257th and final overall pick. The selection took place on Saturday afternoon in Pittsburgh, marking the conclusion of the three-day draft event. Murdock became the 51st player to receive the designation given annually to the last pick in the NFL Draft since the tradition began in 1976.
The Broncos’ selection of Murdock capped a draft in which they did not possess picks in the first two rounds but still managed to secure seven players across the later rounds. Prior to selecting Murdock at No. 257, Denver chose Utah tight end Dallen Bentley with the 256th pick. The team’s 2026 draft class includes defensive tackle Tyler Onyedim, running back Jonah Coleman, guard Kage Casey, tight end Justin Joly, safety Miles Scott, Bentley and Murdock.
Murdock, a 22-year-old linebacker from the University of Buffalo, brought a notable collegiate résumé to the Broncos. During his senior year at Utah, he ranked second in the FBS with six forced fumbles and third with 142 tackles. In his time with the Bulls, Murdock led the team with 13.5 tackles for loss in the 12 games he started and established an NCAA record with 17 career forced fumbles, surpassing the previous mark of 16 held by Khalil Mack.
His ability to force turnovers aligns with the Broncos’ defensive playstyle, according to team evaluations. Despite lacking elite speed, Murdock’s college production was deemed worthy of the final draft selection. The Broncos view his skill set as a potential fit for their defensive schemes, particularly in creating turnover opportunities.
Speaking after his selection, Murdock expressed gratitude for the opportunity to join the Broncos. “I perceive extremely grateful and excited to help the Broncos win, above all else,” he said. He acknowledged that going undrafted had crossed his mind during the process but emphasized his focus on making the most of the chance he received. “I realize a little bit about Mr. Irrelevant, but the main thing is I got an opportunity, and I’m trying to make the most of it to help us win.”
The Mr. Irrelevant tradition includes a week of festivities honoring the final draft pick. Established by former receiver Paul Salata in 1976, “Irrelevant Week” features events such as a trip to Disneyland, a golf tournament, a regatta, a roast, and a ceremony where the recipient is awarded the Lowsman Trophy. The trophy mimics the Heisman Trophy but depicts a player fumbling a football. Last year, the New England Patriots selected Memphis defensive back Kobee Minor as Mr. Irrelevant.
Analysts viewed Murdock as a mid-to-late round prospect entering the draft. Dane Brugler of The Athletic ranked him as the 12th-best linebacker in the 2026 class and assigned him a fourth- to fifth-round grade. Brugler noted Murdock’s turnover-creating ability as a standout trait despite concerns about his athletic profile.
The Broncos’ 2026 draft strategy focused on building depth through later-round selections after trading out of earlier positions. By securing seven players despite lacking early picks, Denver aimed to add contributors who could develop into rotational or special teams players. Murdock represents the culmination of this approach, selected as the final opportunity to add talent to the roster.
As Murdock transitions to the NFL, his immediate focus will be on adapting to the professional level and contributing to the Broncos’ defensive unit. His college success in forcing fumbles suggests a potential role in situational pass-rushing or special teams packages where turnover creation is valued. The coaching staff will evaluate his fit within their scheme during offseason programs and training camp.
The completion of the 2026 NFL Draft sets the stage for the Broncos’ offseason program, which will start in the coming weeks. Players selected in this year’s draft, including Murdock, will participate in rookie minicamp and organized team activities as they work to earn roster spots. The team’s next significant checkpoint will be the start of training camp in late July, when all players will compete for positions on the 53-man roster.
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